My first template. Can I get some suggestions?

[inspiration100]

Hi guys. I'm no designer but I thought I'd give photoshop a crack. Can I get some opinions about this layout and how to improve it?
http://img514.imageshack.us/my.php?image=amtrakfirstattemptcopyeu9.jpg

If your real observant you'll notice that I did use the namepros search at the top as my layout since I couldn't find a good search box :music: .

Thanks for your feedback.

 

[inspiration100]

Anyone please? I really want to improve in designing!

 

[Ross]

For a minisite this would be great. If that is what you are going for ad some content and let it take off.

If you are going for design here i would personally make a header about half the size of that image height and make it the fluid width the page. Then put the nav bar under the header. Add a sidebar on the right and put ads or recent posts or articles there. Then fill the page with the info for the page.

Good Start though!

Good Luck!

 

[blatant]

I would add a footer. Move the search bar into the header, it seems out of place, like its floating in space.
A nav bar would flow better with the design (if you do add a nav, include the search box).
The "Home,Articles, Forum" buttons look out of place on the top.

I would create text boxes, instead of one main text body. Have the text boxes top left, than one in the middle right, and third text box bottom left. Then have an image to the right side of the page, above the "Visit the forum" button.
Just some suggestions.
Good Luck, great start!

 

[Corey]

are there any other colours you could use?
grey is very ordinary

Cheers
Corey

 

[ran_doank]

are there any other colours you could use?
grey is very ordinary

Cheers
Corey

But its "Fit" with the journey theme. its look cool.
But its only me.

 

[priyakochin]

The template is cool.
But I think you need to improve more!

 

[weblord]

the graphics looks great, are you really sure you're not a graphics designer?
the blend is kewl too.

 

[inspiration100]

the graphics looks great, are you really sure you're not a graphics designer?
the blend is kewl too.

Thanks mate, that made my day. Maybe someday .
I will rep you all. Everyone's comment is appreciated and thanks for the hints!!

 

[alihs]

as your first try i'd say good job